Chantel John: Murder causes disbelief and shock in Conne River

Kirk Keeping, 35, has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of 28-year-old Chantel John of Conne River.

the Royal Canadian Mounted Police say they arrested Keeping, who hails from nearby St. Jacques, late Thursday.

The accused appeared before a provincial court judge in Grand Falls-Windsor via teleconference. He remains in custody with his next court appearance set for Jan. 30.

Police say the investigation continues and that more charges are possible.

The RCMP issued a news release Thursday morning stating the Bay D’Espoir detachment received a report of a suspicious death at 9:30 the night before. The major crimes unit was called in, as well as the coroner’s office.

While police did not release the name of the deceased, a post on the Miawpukek Mi’kamawey Mawi’omi council Facebook page identified her as Chantel John.